According to CareerExplorer, loan officers rank in the bottom 5% of careers when it comes to job satisfaction, yet MPA rates the career as one of the happiest. Being a loan officer also ranks as one of the best business jobs in the US. So why all the discrepancies? This article takes a look at some factors that might affect loan officer and loan originator job satisfaction including salary, feeling appreciated, fitting into the industry, and traveling. If you’re considering this career path and aren’t sure what the future holds, keep reading.
Loan officers are generally happy in their roles given the job’s flexibility, but some report feeling underappreciated and stressed due to changing market conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Many of the statistics out there regarding loan officer job satisfaction can be conflicting
- LO salaries can be quite variable
- LOs don’t always feel appreciated
- LOs report feeling like a good fit for the industry
- As an LO, travel may be necessary but the job is quite flexible
- Ultimately, job satisfaction has to do with your values
How Much Do Loan Officers Make?
Overall, loan officers and loan originators report being satisfied with their salaries and feeling fairly compensated. However, compensation can greatly vary depending on whether a role is strictly commission-based or if there is a guaranteed base pay. Although a guaranteed base might sound like it offers more financial stability, it’s important to remember that more on the front-end means less on the backend.
Read more about the average loan officer salary and loan originator salary by state.
Do LOs Feel Appreciated?
Unfortunately, some loan officers report feeling underappreciated in their roles. In a survey Good Vibe Squad conducted, loan officers replied that the hardest part of the job was “having people see value in what you do behind the scenes to overcome the objection of wanting to have the lowest interest rate.”
Helping someone through a challenging divorce or helping a veteran achieve home ownership can be incredibly rewarding, and cultivating relationships with borrowers is one of the greatest defenses against burnout and feeling underappreciated.
Typical LO Stress Levels
Many loan officers report feeling stressed about market conditions. This was also seen in the results of Good Vibe Squad’s study. According to the respondents, the biggest stressors are as follows:
- Finding a balance between personal and professional life.
- Continuing to get business in new market environments.
- Adapting to the market and client needs.
- Generating consistent leads.
- Converting leads to consistent closings.
Depending on what study you read, some rank typical loan officer stress levels as average while others rank the typical stress levels as above average. Ultimately, feeling confident in your work environment and skills along with properly caring for your physical and mental health can go a long way in reducing stress.
Fitting In the Industry
A majority of loan officers report feeling confident about their abilities and their fit within the industry. The work environment also ranks as favorable. As a loan officer, you might work for various financial institutions, banks, or even as an independent contractor. There are also many specializations and niches that can help you gain specialized skills and experience. Maybe you want to help teachers, single parents, or ex-marines in your area. Picking a niche is a great way to make a difference while also setting yourself apart in a more competitive market.
Do LOs Have to Travel A Lot?
You might be surprised to learn that some loan officers work from home. However, the key is getting to know your local rules and regulations. Compliance is one of the less glamorous parts of the job, but it’s crucial to your success.
Travel opportunities may involve grabbing coffee with borrowers and referral partners or attending conferences and mastermind events. These live events are a great way to meet new people and connect with others in the industry. You never know what opportunities might present themselves from networking.
Join a Community of Loan Officers Changing the Game
Good Vibe Squad offers lead gen, marketing, and coaching services for mortgage professionals looking to grow their potential within the industry. As a member, you gain access to exclusive weekly live coaching sessions and a community of like-minded loan officers who are passionate about what they do.
Schedule a call with our team today!
